Canada
Practical tips
Leave well-informed!
English
As a general rule, the standard test requested by the universities for international students is the IELTS (International English Language Training System). This is a face-to-face examination that seeks to evaluate all the skills of the candidate in Shakespeare’s language (written, oral, reading, and listening). It is possible to pass this test in France, as in Australia. Do not hesitate to ask us for more information.
Budget and Employment
The cost of living in Canada is not as high as that in many other English-speaking countries (mainly England and the United States). Moreover, it is relatively easy to find a job if you look for one and you have a decent command of English. Under the student visa regime, it is possible to work part-time off-campus once you have completed at least 6 months of studies, allowing you to cover for many expenses. You can work on-campus as soon as you start your studies if you find an available position. It is also relatively easy to find a small job, especially in the service sector. On average, the cost of living amounts to about 9,000€ per year in Canada (that is about $1,200 CAD per month).
Tuition Fees
As for tuition costs, it should be noted that students do pay tuition in Canada. The cost of tuition varies depending on the institution and the duration of studies. University education is somewhat more expensive than a College or University College education. Depending on the institution and the curriculum, an academic year can cost between 5,000€ and 8,000€ at the undergraduate level (from bac to bac+4). Do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
Accommodation
It is easy to find housing in Canada. To begin with, we advise students to spend one month with a family or in a student residence to better understand Canadian culture in an Anglo-Saxon environment. Many institutions offer this option, including some of our partner institutions. In the meantime, you can search for a roommate. Not difficult to find, a roommate will allow you to lower housing costs and award you greater liberty and direct access to Canadians or other international students. As a general rule, only a security deposit of 1 or 2 month’s rent is necessary along with a copy of your identity documents and a signed report on the condition of the property.
Transport
It is rather simple to move around Canada. In the cities, the public transportation systems, be it tramway, bus or subway, are excellent and it is somewhat difficult to become lost. If you wish to travel across Canada from east to west, or travel south to the United States, you can either rent a car, on your own or as a group, or take the Greyhound bus lines that are very popular with Americans. Some local airlines allow you to cross Canada more quickly, or even to make a tour to Hawaii. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
Visa
Once you are admitted in a higher education institution in Canada, you can request your student visa. On average, the process takes around a month's time.